Netball: Former Magic star announces Silver Ferns retirement

Irene van Dyk has announced her retirement from international netball.

The world's most celebrated netballer, Silver Fern Irene van Dyk has today announced her retirement from international netball, effective immediately.

Van Dyk, who previously played for the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic before moving this season to Central Pulse, has made the agonising decision in consultation with her family and believes it's the right thing to do at this stage in her netball career.

"I needed to be true to myself, I have always said I would step down when I felt the timing was right. This year (Commonwealth Games) and next year (Netball World Cup) are the most significant netball events on our calendar, and if I can't be better than the best for the Silver Ferns, then it's my time to finish now," van Dyk said.

"I have really high expectations of myself and my match statistics over the past few months in the ANZ Championship are simply not good enough to justify taking my game to the international level."

Van Dyk's declaration comes seven weeks out from the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, where the Silver Ferns are the reigning gold medallists.

"I have full confidence in Wai and the girls and there's no doubt in my mind they can win the gold medals. The Silver Ferns group has so much amazing talent and I know they will do the job!"

Silver Ferns coach Waimarama Taumaunu says she understands and respects van Dyk's decision.

"Playing at the elite level for 20 years is unheard of in the game of netball, Irene is one of the truly greats of the international game, she is the most capped player in the world and an incredible role model to all aspiring netballers."

Van Dyk also concedes that her career wouldn't have reached the heights it has without the unwavering support of husband Christie and daughter Bianca.

Netball New Zealand Chief Executive Hilary Poole says van Dyk is an iconic figure not just in New Zealand, but in Netball playing nations around the globe, inspiring a generation.

"Irene van Dyk has not only become a household name in New Zealand but is a leading light internationally, and Netball New Zealand is looking forward to honouring her," says Poole.

Whilst retiring from the international game, van Dyk will not be lost to the Netball court, indicating she is still keen to play in the 2015 ANZ Championship which will now be her focus for the foreseeable future.